Two objects attract each other gravitationally. If the distance between their centers doubles, the gravitational force
A) is a half.
B) doubles.
C) is a fourth.
D) quadruples.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the formula for gravitational force (F = G(m1m2)/r^2), if the distance between the two objects doubles (i.e. r becomes 2r), the gravitational force will decrease by a factor of 2^2 or 4. Therefore, the gravitational force will be a fourth of its original strength, which is option C.

Two Objects Attract Each Other Gravitationally